Cees van Gent Appointed CEO of JF Hillebrand Group

JF Hillebrand Group's Supervisory Board has appointed Cees van Gent to take over from Christophe Bernard as Chief Executive Officer, effective on the 1st of October 2017.

The appointment of Cees van Gent as CEO marks a new phase of growth for JF Hillebrand Group. He has a strong and proven track record with leading multinational logistics companies, having held previous roles such as CEO, DHL Freight Germany GmbH, Group CEO, Lehnkering Logistics and Services GmbH, and Group CEO, Van Gansewinkel Groep BV.

"Cees brings a combination of deep management expertise from leading multinational companies in areas such as logistics, infrastructure, and environment, with a match in our values around passion for service and customer intimacy," says Christof Hillebrand, Chairman of the Supervisory Board. "His appointment sets the company on a path which we are excited about, particularly for our 2020 Business Plan goals to digitise the customer experience and fast-track service innovation. "

"It is a great honour to be appointed CEO for JF Hillebrand Group," says Cees van Gent. "What makes this organisation special is its unique friendly and flexible, entrepreneurial, and decentralised culture. Within our industry, the company is known for its unparalleled service and that is what I am going to continue building on in the coming years. With my experience in building and buying better businesses, I look forward to accelerating the implementation of the 2020 Business Plan vision around customer centricity and innovation."

Cees van Gent will take over the role from Christophe Bernard, who will remain with the company to assist with the transition until March 2018. "On behalf of the entire company, I would like to sincerely thank Christophe for his 35 years of exceptional service, having successfully developed the business across four continents and leading the company as Group CEO since 2013. Over the past four years we have made enormous strides in developing talent, refining our strategy, and strengthening our business performance," says Christof Hillebrand.

Bio and photo available on request.

ABOUT JF HILLEBRAND GROUP

JF Hillebrand Group is a privately-owned international logistics service provider operating in two specific niche markets: Beer, Wine and Spirits (BWS) and Industrial Bulk. The Group employs 2,500 people and has a presence in more than 90 countries, and generated revenues of EUR1.3 billion in 2016.